Economic profile

Diverse and dynamic, the Northern Grampians Shire boasts an exciting array of industries and business enterprises.

More than 720 businesses are currently listed on the NGSC business database with major activity based in the thriving tourism, mining, textile manufacturing and rural industries. As one of the state's key agricultural districts, the shire's total annual production exceeds $96 million. A robust and booming local economy beckons newcomers and encourages existing stakeholders to diversify and strengthen the corporate base.

Gold shaped the early years and continues to be an important part of the local economy. The shire boasts Victoria's largest operating gold mine and numerous significant gold heritage sites of great interest to tourists.

Industry is generally concentrated in the key townships of Stawell and St Arnaud, where retail and commercial operations are mainly of a local service nature. These centres service the region's needs for shopping, business and commercial services and host other activities including brick making, meat processing, steel fabrication, feed production, supply and service of farm machinery and small service industry.

New technologies have been enthusiastically embraced here, with telecommunications and e-commerce service delivery providing exciting opportunities for business expansion, diversification and investment.

This broad spectrum of regional industries consolidates a secure base for the thriving economy and facilitates powerful networking and collaborative possibilities.